Essendon development coach James Kelly believes Guelfi has what it takes to stand up to a brutish Power midfield, which features big-bodied beasts Ollie Wines, Brad Ebert and Tom Rockliff in the rotation.

But Kelly said the versatile Guelfi would also spend time on the wing, across half-back and in the forward line early in his career.

“We’re confident that he can play and withstand the rigours of the game,” Kelly said.

“There are going to be times where he gets really sore, as every first-year player does.

“That’s just the nature of a super intense, fast game.

Swan Districts' big signing Rhys Palmer joins John Townsend to run through this week's game and discuss why he made the move to Bassendean.

The West Australian

VideoSwan Districts' big signing Rhys Palmer joins John Townsend to run through this week's game and discuss why he made the move to Bassendean.

“Port Adelaide are pretty stacked inside and they’ve got some good wheels on the outside, so it’s a good test for him.

“But we’re confident he can do everything we ask of him.”

Guelfi, who was named across half-forward, has impressed Essendon’s coaching staff with his work ethic and ability to handle a heavy training load, while also displaying maturity and a keen desire to learn.

Guelfi has worked closely with Kelly and has been shadowing captain Dyson Heppell, while David Myers and Travis Colyer have kept a close eye on their fellow Sandgroper.

“He’s a really well-rounded player and his experience in the WAFL comes out in the way he trains,” Kelly said.

“He’s smart and diligent, a hard-worker, brave, tough and a good user of the footy.

“There wasn’t one thing when he came to the club that stood out that we needed to fix.”